italian panini cafe · $
Maci Cafe
Lavazza espresso and pressed Italian sandwiches, one block off the bridge
Massimo Ruffinazzi, who goes by Maci, grew up in Casteggio in Lombardy and trained as a chef before landing on this corner a block up from the Highland Bridge. He pulls Lavazza espresso, brews a locally roasted drip blend, and presses panini to order: prosciutto, spicy coppa, smoked salmon, tuna, a vegetable one. Gluten-free bread is on hand. Cannoli and pastries at the counter. There is a small patio and a handful of indoor tables, and Massimo is usually the one who takes your order.
Why go. A real Italian sandwich made by the owner, for the price of a chain lunch.
Order ahead through the Clover app if you are coming at noon; the counter backs up fast in a room this small.
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